Reactive Arthritis Treatment
The choice of treatment for reactive arthritis depends on your specific symptoms. If you still have an infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, usually for seven to 10 days. Some physicians treat chlamydia infections with antibiotics for three months. A limited number of studies have shown that prolonged treatment helps prevent reactive arthritis, but treatment remains controversial. Sexual partners of a person who was recently diagnosed with chlamydia also should be addressed.
For mild arthritis may suffice a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), with or without reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol and other brands). In more severe cases of arthritis, injections of corticosteroids into the inflamed joint can relieve pain, although relief is often temporary.
Other medications that may help include those used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, such as sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate (no generic prescription drugs) Doctors usually do not prescribe medicines called oral corticosteroids, because they usually work as well for the reactive arthritis. It also may be prescribed new drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis, including adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel) or infliximab (Remicade). The joint replacement surgery may help in cases of severe arthritis unresponsive to medication.
It is important to balance rest with exercise. Cycling or swimming, for example, can help reduce stiffness and keep the joint moving. Your doctor may refer you to a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or podiatrist. The tablets, templates or corrective orthotics can alleviate such a way as drugs do not.
For other manifestations of the disease, treatment options include:
- corticosteroid cream or ointment for the rash, it is important to control a dermatologist, especially if the rash affects the penis or face
- Corticosteroid drops or pills for uveitis
- NSAIDs or other painkillers for inflammation of the urinary tract (urethritis)
The health professional should coordinate regular checkups with specialists, which could include dermatologists, ophthalmologists, orthopedic surgeons or urologists.